Published 12/14/22
Berks County Public Libraries is excited to announce that beginning January 1, 2023, all 19 system libraries will be fine free for traditional library materials!
Removing fines from library materials ensures that all people can borrow from their library without a financial penalty for returning items late.
Learn more about the policy change and how it affects you.
What does this mean for you?
All traditional items owned by participating libraries such as books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks will not receive fines if you forget to return them by the due date. Select non-traditional materials (noted below) will continue to collect fines.
While you don't need to worry about receiving fines for overdue items, you should still aim to return all borrowed materials by the due date or shortly after so that others may enjoy them. You will continue to receive alerts when your items are almost due and when they become overdue, but you won’t receive fines if you are a few days late.
Long-overdue items that are not returned in a timely manner will be marked LOST, and you will be charged additional fees for each lost item.
Fine Free Exceptions
Materials that will collect late fines include:
- Library of Things materials
- Museum/admission passes
- Inter-Library Loans (ILL)
- Equipment
- Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still have to pay a fine that was on my account prior to my library going fine free?
All overdue fines have been removed for items from all system-member libraries. If your account still has charges associated with it, there could be LOST items that were never returned to the library or items that were damaged and charged to your account.
Will I be notified before my late item becomes LOST?
Yes, you will continue to receive regular account notifications for all borrowed items. This includes notices when your item is about to become due along with two overdue notices past an item's due date. Shortly after that second overdue notice, items will be marked as LOST.
What is the difference between a fine and a fee?
Fines are associated with late materials. Fees are for long-overdue items that are marked LOST, materials that are damaged, and the replacement and administrative costs associated with lost or damaged items.
